How to Plant a Scotch Moss Lawn

Scotch moss (Sagina subulata), also called "pearlwort," stays low enough to the ground to be used as a grass substitute. It generally thrives in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5a through 9a, although the "aurea" cultivar of Scotch moss can grow in zones as low as 3b. The moss stays between 1 and 2 inches tall, and produces small flowers. Plant it in an area with low-to-moderate amounts of foot traffic and decent soil drainage.

1

Choose a planting location that receives full sunlight or partial shade and has a soil with a neutral pH. Unlike true mosses, Scotch moss does not grow well in full shade.

2

Remove all weeds and existing lawn grass from the planting area.

3

Add compost to the area if you have soil with poor drainage, such as a heavy clay soil. Apply a couple inches of compost to the soil, and work it in. Scotch moss prefers well-drained soils, and compost can improve the drainage of heavy clay soils.

4

Cut small strips or squares out of a starter flat of Scotch moss using a sharp knife. Each moss clump can spread out as much as 12 inches, so the most economical use of the moss will be to cut small strips about 1 to 2 inches wide and then allow them to spread.

5

Lay the moss strips on the ground so that they are spaced about 6 inches from each other. Press or roll them gently into the ground.

6

Keep the area moist, but do not water so much that the moss sits in still water. Once the area fills in, you can allow it to dry out a bit between waterings. Do not let it dry out so much that it begins to turn brown.

7

Apply a well-diluted liquid fertilizer, such as fish emulsion, once before the moss blooms during spring and once after the moss blooms. Just about any balanced fertilizer will work well for Scotch moss.

Things You Will Need

Sharp knife

Compost

Liquid fertilizer, such as fish emulsion

Tip

If you want to grow Scotch moss in an area that receives a high amount of foot traffic, consider installing stepping stones or a path. While Scotch moss tolerates some traffic, it does not tolerate as much wear as grass.

About the Author

Lisa Chinn developed her research skills while working at a research university library. She writes for numerous publications, specializing in gardening, home care, wellness, copywriting, style and travel. Chinn also designs marketing materials, holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology and is working toward a PhD in cognitive neuroscience.